404 reference

The texture of each individual instrument is exponentially enhanced compared to the standard version. A fully discrete preamplifier section delivers sharp dynamic sensitivity, while a high output stage, specially optimized for bandwidth and distortion, provides neutral character and transient accuracy. The sophisticated selection of components protects the design from tonal peculiarities, thereby preserving naturalness along the shortest signal path.

In addition, an integrated phono preamp, USB DAC, (two) preamplifier outputs and a tape monitor loop extend the functionality to form a perfectly flexible integrated amplifier.

The power supply section has been optimized to the maximum. The standard 404 utilizes a total capacity of 57,000 µF. In the 404 Reference, the capacity is increased to an impressive 107000 µF, of which 21000 µF is reserved for the amplifier alone. This huge increase expands drive, dynamic character, extracts more detail, low-level information, a deeper and more articulated soundstage, and increases space between instruments, while the bass has more power and sounds more confident than ever before.

The optional DAC module is based on the ESS Sabre 9000 series chip. SPDIF supports PCM streams up to 192kHz/24-bit due to the limitations of SPDIF (coaxial) specifications. There are 3 separate power supplies with very low noise regulators, 2 for the ESS DAC board and 1 for the analog circuitry. The capacitor bank is massive and uses 42000 µF (in the case of the 404 Reference) from the power supply of the power amplifier.

Particular attention was paid to the sound of the analog output stage to match the dynamic and natural sound of Moonriver. The result is an impressive sounding D/A converter that respects time, space and color in music and reveals the dynamic contrast that defines each musical event.